Nootropic Solutions

Best Nootropics for Libido

28 Oct 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Libido-Boosting Nootropics That Work

Natural libido boosting nootropics have been around for thousands of years. They are reliable, potent, and plentiful in both Eastern and Western cultures alike. Some nootropics are more powerful libido boosters, providing stimulation for both men and women. Other nootropics are better oriented for a particular gender. Choosing the right nootropic for sex drive means understanding each nootropic’s benefits fully, and how they benefit a nootropic stack.

Top 6 Nootropics for Libido and Sex Drive

Of the many nootropics which can help boost libido, these are the top six nootropic supplements for increasing sex drive.

Ashwagandha

Besides Ashwagandha’s ability to improve semen count and quality in men (Chevallier, 2016), the herb has been proven to provide aid for those suffering from erectile dysfunction (Weil, 2004). The plant also helps with stress reduction, which is wildly beneficial when it comes to the libido-boosting facets of the nootropic (Balch, 2010). Ultimately, the herb’s libido benefits can be traced to Ashwagandha’s improvement to blood circulation (Ambiye et al., 2013). While the herb offers many other benefits as well, it is obvious that it has proven itself as a strong, natural, libido booster.

Bacopa Monnieri

As an adaptogen, Bacopa is one of the best herbs for relieving stress and lowering anxiety (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). This makes the herb excellent for improving sexual activity and sex drive, as stress is often a huge contributing factor to decreased libido. It is well known for its ability to improve erectile dysfunction and give men a boost in the bedroom (Chevallier, 2016). It can be used to treat infertility iwomen, while also offering improvements to overall female libido (2016). It’s important to note, however, that while the herb can help improve libido in both genders, it may stunt sperm production in men (Mishra et al., 2018). Still, it is considered one of the most powerful, natural aphrodisiacs around (2018).

Codyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom is one of the most potent nootropics for improving energy and reducing fatigue (Hirsch et al., 2017). Improving energy and reducing fatigue helps improve the bedroom experience and libido alike. In fact, the fungi has been proven to offer powerful benefits to all aerobic and anaerobic exercises (2017). There are many studies which outline izts capabilities in terms of improving endurance and athletic power (Kumar et al., 2011). As if enhancing libido for both genders weren’t enough, the herb is also well-known to treat infertility in men (Panda & Swain, 2011). In fact, it is even purportedly able to boost testosterone, increase and extend erectile capacity, and resolve erectile dysfunction in men (2011).

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola has a long history as a general aid to vitality and energy, being used throughout all traditional Asian and Indian medicines (Chevallier, 2016). The herb can energize the body, reduce stress, and promote many health benefits. In addition to these benefits, it is well-known for its use as a natural aphrodisiac and general mood-boosting libido supplement (2016). Part of its improvements to the sex drive comes from its ability to increase blood flow, even allowing the plant the opportunity to favorably impact erectile dysfunction (Qinna et al., 2009). It may improve testosterone in men (Sodhi, 2006). It can also decrease fatigue and improve overall sex drive in both genders (2006). Gotu Kola could perhaps be called one of the most powerful nootropics for libido.

Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng has been a long part of traditional Eastern medicines, however, it has become a recent Western staple for many holistic benefits as well. The herb provides massive benefits to athletic performance, stamina, and the body’s ability to combat fatigue (Chevallier, 2016). It’s overall boost to energy is wildly useful in terms of libido and performance in the bedroom for both men and women (2016). It reduces anxiety, allowing the mind and body to better focus (Orr, 2014). And it has been used for thousands of years for its natural aphrodisiac and libido boosting properties in both men and women (Chevallier, 2016). One recent study even revealed the herb to have a positive effect on sex glands (Balch, 2010).

Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali is a potent energy and stamina booster, having a long history of use as a natural aid to sex drive (Rehman et al., 2016). It is well-known for its ability to boost athletic performance and reduce fatigue (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). It is used throughout much of Asia as an herbal viagra, helping combat erectile dysfunction (Tambi & Imran, 2010). It reduces stress, improves relaxation, and works as a stable libido booster, even improving male fertility (2010). It could improve testosterone, and is often used to improve overall sexual performance (Ang et al., 2000). The herb is such a common libido booster that it even maintains the nick name “Ali’s Walking Stick” in reference to its aphrodisiac benefits (Rehman et al., 2016).

Some Last Words of Wisdom When Using Nootropics for Libido

Finding the right nootropic for libido may take a bit of trial and error, as each nootropic works differently from metabolism to metabolism. These nootropics also work differently between genders, with some only working for one gender or the other. Many times, individuals will choose a selection of more than one nootropic supplements to boost libido or help with fertility. Regardless, the nootropics on this list are the most potent in terms of improving sex drive and overall libido.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources

Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation research. Vol. 16(4). Pp. 313–326. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2013.1431

Ambiye, V., Langade, D., Dongre, S., Aptikar, P., Kulkarni, M., and Dongre, A. (2013). Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 571420. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/571420

Ang, H., Cheang, H., and Yusof, A. (2000). Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats. Exp Anim. Vol. 49(1). Pp. 35-8. DOI: 10.1538/expanim.49.35

Balch, P. (2010). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Fifth Edition. Avery Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-58333-400-3

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Hirsch, K. R., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Roelofs, E. J., Trexler, E. T., & Mock, M. G. (2017). Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation. Journal of dietary supplements. Vol. 14(1). Pp. 42–53. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386

Khanijo, T., and Jiraungkoorskul, W. (2016). Review Ergogenic Effect of Long Jack, Eurycoma Longifolia. Pharmacognosy reviews, Vol. 10(20). Pp. 139–142. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.194041

Kumar, R., Negi, P., Singh, B., Ilavazhagan, G., Bhargava, K., Sethy, N., (2011). Cordyceps sinensis promotes exercise endurance capacity of rats by activating skeletal muscle metabolic regulators. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Vol. 136(1). Pp. 260-266. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2011.04.040.

Mishra, R. K., Singh, S., & Singh, S. K. (2018). Natural products in regulation of male fertility. The Indian journal of medical research. Vol. 148(Suppl). Pp. S107–S114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1968_17

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7

Panda, A. K., & Swain, K. C. (2011). Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.78183

Qinna, N., Taha, H., Matalka, K., and Badwan, A. (2009). A new herbal combination, Etana, for enhancing erectile function: an efficacy and safety study in animals. Int J Impot Res. Vol. 21(5). Pp.315-20. DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2009.18

Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., and Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Vol. 21(3). Pp. 331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331

Sodhi, V. (2006). Male Sexual Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective. Naturopathic Doctor News & Review. Retrieved from: https://ndnr.com/mens-health/male-sexual-health-an-ayurvedic-perspective/

Tambi, M. I., & Imran, M. K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian journal of andrology, 12(3), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1038/aja.2010.7 Weil, A. (2004). Natural Health, Natural Medicine. Houghton Mifflin Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-618-47903-0

Nootropics Library

The Nootropics Library: Panax Ginseng

29 Sep 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Everything You Need to Know About Panax Ginseng

General Information

Scientific Name: Panax Ginseng

Any Other Names: Chinese Ginseng, Ginseng, Ren Shen (Chinese), Renshen (Chinese variant)

Primary Constituents: Acetylenic compounds, Panaxans, Sesquiterpenes, Triterpenoid saponins and Ginsenosides

Country or Region of Origin: Native to China, Eastern Russia, and North Korea

Known Uses: Cognitive Function, Memory, Simulant, Stamina, Athletic Performance, Life-Enhancing Tonic, Adaptogen, Anti-Anxiety, Aphrodisiac, Libido, Erectile Dysfunction, Menopause Tonic, and More

General History & Introduction

Panax Ginseng is one of the most popular and well-known nootropics around the world. It has a history of over 7,000 years of recorded therapeutic use (Chevallier, 2016). It has been so well-sought after that there have been wars fought over the territory controlling its cultivation (2016). Panax is exceptionally popular in Western culture as a dietary supplement. Its many active components make the herb useful for many parts of the body, as well as general wellness (Beshara, 2019). It has been called one of the most famous adaptive tonics in traditional Chinese medicine (Orr, 2014). One thing is for sure: Ginseng is arguably one of the most useful herbs in holistic practice.

Nootropic Benefits of Panax Ginseng

Cognitive Function, Memory

Panax Ginseng is popular worldwide for its ability to improve cognitive performance (Beshara, 2019). Many clinical trials have revealed the herb to offer significant improvements to cognitive performance in healthy adults. And many clinical trials have suggested the herb can improve cognitive function for Alzheimer’s patients (2019). Ginseng has been proven in recent Russian studies to improve mental activity (Balch, 2010). The plant’s proven ability to increase attention, alertness, and energy, make it an excellent cognitive nootropic (2010).

Stimulant, Stamina, Athletic Performance

Panax is frequently used by athletes for a stimulating boost, and for its stamina-promoting properties (Chevallier, 2016). It improves the body’s ability to fight fatigue and offers a well-known energy boost (2016). Panax is revered for its capability to improve chronic fatigue syndrome (Beshara, 2019). It is so impactful in terms of preventing fatigue due to its ability to bypass glycogen, and instead making use of fatty acids for energy (Balch, 2010). The herb can improve one’s ability to adapt to extreme temperatures (Chevallier, 2016). Panax’s favorable impact on sustaining respiration is also very helpful for athletes and stressful situations (Orr, 2014).

Life-Enhancing Tonic

The Chinese, as well as Western cultures, have recognized Panax Ginseng’s general capability as a life-enhancing tonic (Chevallier, 2016). The herb can stimulate circulation and regulate blood sugar fluctuations (Conkling & Wong, 2006). It has the power to moderate blood pressure (2006). It has been used for its rejuvenation and detoxifying properties (Balch, 2010). There are studies which support the idea that Panax can improve kidney function, cool fevers, and even influence and regulate digestion (Orr, 2014). Panax ginseng has been called a powerful antioxidant and a youth-preserving herb (Walker & Brown, 1998). The herb is able to stimulate and strengthen the heart, as well as regulate the central nervous system (1998).

Adaptogen, Anti-Anxiety

Panax ginseng has capability to help the body handle difficult situations (Orr, 2014). Panax helps the body adapt to stress (Chevallier, 2016). It will improve the mind’s ability to relax, eliminating both mental and emotional stresses. The herb’s reduction in common stresses can include decreased worries about hunger, fatigue, and extreme temperature (2016). As an adaptogen, Ginseng regulates and influences a lot of systems within the body (Conkling & Wong, 2006). The herb provides the body anxiety adaptation and a range of stress responses, applying them as necessary to combat the independent adverse effects of stress (Orr, 2014). Ginseng’s heavy triterpenoid saponin content is purportedly responsible for the plant’s adaptogenic properties. The active constituents also do a great job of improving mood (2014).

Aphrodisiac, Libido

Panax has been used for thousands of years as a male aphrodisiac (Chevallier, 2016). It has been said to improve general vitality and virility in men and women. It has also been used to improve libido for women going through menopause. Panax is also reportedly a great treatment for erectile dysfunction. It can even be used to improve impotence (2016). One Russian study proved Ginseng had a positive effect on sex glands, and helps men correct sexual dysfunctions (Balch, 2010).

Other Uses

Panax Ginseng has been used to resist infection and improve liver function (Chevallier, 2016). It is often taken by to improve the quality of life in cancer patients. It has been known to improve immune function (2016). In one recent study, Panax was proven to reduce the likelihood participants would catch the flu (Beshara, 2019). In higher doses, it can be used to help reduce inflammation, especially with rheumatoid arthritis (Balch, 2010). Its purported benefits for diabetes patients are likely due to the decrease of the cortisol hormone in the blood (2010).

A recent study has found Panax to have the power to regulate adrenal glands (Orr, 2014). This same research outlined its additional ability to regulate the pancreas. There are reports of the Native Americans using Ginseng to treat convulsions and palsy. They also classically used the plant to recover from general illness as well (2014). This could be considered the Native American version of Western culture’s “Chicken Noodle Soup” tonic.

Dosing and Usage Information

Although traditional Chinese preparation of Panax was normally a vegetable soup (Chevallier, 2016), this method is rarely used today. And despite there being a lot of different Panax supplements, from untreated or blanched, whole or part root, liquid or concentrate, tincture or tea, Panax is most popularly consumed in Western culture via capsule form (Balch, 2010). Typically, a Panax Ginseng dietary supplement will offer daily servings of around 400 to 2000 mg of extract. Pills and capsules are also more convenient for short-term usage.

Side Effects

Panax Ginseng is generally considered safe within established daily values. Exceeding the established daily value dosages can increase the likelihood of adverse side effects such as insomnia and high blood pressure (Chevallier, 2016). It is important to consult a physician before using Ginseng if pregnant, nursing, or using blood-thinning medication. It is suggested to avoid using Ginseng with caffeine (2016). Panax Ginseng should be limited to 6 months of use at a time, as it can have strong, hormone-like effects on the body (Beshara, 2019). Still, it is a generally accepted as safe for consumption, nontoxic adaptogen (Orr, 2014).

Other Important Information

Cultivation of Panax Ginseng requires immense skill and attention (Chevallier, 2016). Typically, the roots will only be harvested after having grown for 4 years to ensure the active constituents are strongest in content and concentration. Traditionally, the dry roots are chewed for energy boosts. The extract form of the herb is often used by women in menopause for its ability to increase sexual arousal as well as reduce hot flashes and improve mood (2016).

It is important to note that there are two primary variations (species) of Ginseng being Siberian ginseng [Eleutherococcus senticosus] and Chinese ginseng [Panax ginseng] (Orr, 2014). Both species share similar qualities and offer nearly the same benefits, however, this article is focusing on Panax ginseng. Panax ginseng is a bit rare, as it is highly endangered. For this reason it is difficult to find trustworthy vendors, as the market has been flooded with falsely labeled “Panax” ginseng products which actually contain Siberian ginseng (2014).

One finicky version of Ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, grows in forest areas of North America (Orr, 2014). This variant of the plant was well-known for its therapeutic properties throughout traditional Native American culture. In fact, it was loved by many Native American tribes including the Cherokee, Delaware, Iroquois, and Seminole. By the end of the eighteenth century, Native American priests and healers would be administering the plant for a variety of ailment s (2014). Ginseng would only grow in popularity, becoming one of the most prevalently marketed nootropic supplements of modern times.

Conclusion

Panax Ginseng is widely known for its therapeutic benefits. It has been well-revered in Chinese medicine, as well as throughout the world. It is commonly known as a general tonic in so many traditional, holistic practices for its ability to influence such versatile systems of the body (Conkling & Wong, 2006). Although it can be a bit more difficult to source high quality Panax (and even harder to cultivate it), it could easily be argued one of the most valuable natural herbs used in modern, holistic healing and nootropic stacks to date!

A Note from NooFiles